Customer Reviews

Leonardo

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This is a very interesting book on Leonardo published back in the 1970s but still worth reading. This is partly a biography and partly a commentary/explication on Leonardo's paintings and other art. It does not cover much of his scientific studies. The biographical material is useful but what really makes this book special are the numerous novel (at the time)insights into Leonardo's art. One big prediction was that the Mona Lisa would be recognized to be a portrait of the young princess Isabella of Aragon who later became the Duchess of Milan. Payne carefully laid out his reasoning but for many years his claim was ignored. However, recently several noted authorities have begun to consider the possibility seriously. There are many other well argued insights into other paintings as well. Worth seeking out!